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SAN DIEGO - San Diego men's basketball will take on a challenging schedule in 2017-18, as announced Monday by head coach Lamont Smith.

The Toreros will play nine games against teams that participated in postseason play in 2017.

"We're excited about this schedule and competing against some of the best teams in the country," said Smith. "Our nonconference lineup will get us prepared for WCC play, which we know will be strong again this season."

USD opens its season Nov. 12 at San Jose State before returning to the Jenny Craig Pavilion for a three-game homestand as part of the the Grand Canyon Classic Tournament.

The Toreros play host Robert Morris (Nov. 15), Norfolk State (Nov. 18), and the Arkansas-Little Rock (Nov. 20). The team the heads to Grand Canyon on Nov. 25 to conclude the tournament.

USD continues nonconference play at home on Nov. 30 against local rival, San Diego State.

"Having San Diego State in our building is outstanding," said Smith. "We look forward to welcoming some of the nation's best mid-major programs to San Diego."

The Toreros return to the road for two games with matchups at UC Santa Barbara (Dec. 2) and 2017 NCAA Tournament team, New Mexico State (Dec. 6)

After returning home to host Northern Arizona University (Dec. 9), the Toreros head to Pac-12 foe Colorado on Dec. 12.

"We have a challenging road schedule that includes trips to Colorado and Grand Canyon, which are really great atmospheres for college basketball on the West Coast," said Smith.

Olin Carter III returns for his junior season after averaging 15.3 points per game last season.